@daisyduke wrote:
I want a mercedes or a lex, I can lease one. I won't buy a mercedes pre owned b/c I'm too scared of it having problems or even the smallest thing, like an oil change, is expensive. I'd rather have a new pair of boots or a handbag than sink my money into a car that just provides status.So, I do want BOTH the handbag and the car. How do i get that?
How do you get it? By paying for it of course 
But at the end of the day, was it worth it? That is up to you of course.
Anyhow, I just wanted to say leasing can be beneficial if you can write off the mileage as an expense because you're using it for your business. Leasing also provides some peace of mind knowing that the car is always in warranty, so problems that arise are, for the most part, covered by the warranty. And as you mentioned, it provides an avenue to have a different car more frequently. Now is it for everyone? Definitely not, but I wouldn't go as far to say it's a waste since, different people have different priorities (i.e. handbags, shoes, and a luxury car).
To me, the route would be to go used, especially if you're looking for luxury cars. There are many certified pre-owned cars, with warranties out there. Being able to get 2.9%, is just icing on the cake, but even if you got a 7% interest rate, at least you didn't take the 20% - 30% depreciation hit that the first owner took.
you got that right, how do you get it? you have to pay for it.
The conundrum I'm in....I think if i do buy a pre owned car, I want to buy one that will hold its value longer - that is why i was talking about the Lex...they are running deals right now at pre owned for 2.9% -- and after I'm done paying it off, i will have something that will have held it's value a little better than something else I was looking to buy...I am trying to think long term too....
I only would get reimbursed for the miles i need to travel, and it doesnt' equate to lease...
Your depreciation point is so truthful. more to think about....
Starting Score: 682 EQ, 663 TUI find this to be so interesting. I am looking at three cars: Lexus IS, Mercedes C or a Maxima.
So i went to Edmunds....the LEXUS IS is the HIGHEST Depreciating car over a five year period. I am SHOCKED to learn that the Maxima comes in 1st, Benz is 2nd and Lexus is significantly a higher depreciating car. By year five, $11K! Benz and Max are very close!
Looking at all 2007...
Benz is duh, the most expensive for repairs coming in over five years at $4900; Lex $1900 and Maxima is $1300....